Liquid Addict

Tag: Adventure

Trinidad and Tobago, Islands of Adventure

by on May.05, 2011, under Articles

kayak

Trinidad and Tobago, two islands set in the Caribbean Sea. The name Caribbean conjures up images of blue seas and white sand beaches set against green hills. It brings to mind images of lying on the beach sipping pina coladas or rum and coca-cola. For the holiday traveler Tobago meets those expectations. For the outdoor enthusiast however, Trinidad and Tobago can be islands of outdoor recreation adventure with hiking trails and hidden waterfalls, bird and turtle watching, cycling through verdant countryside or kayaking past wildlife filled forests.

Trinidad and Tobago has a range of hiking opportunities with many of the hikes leading to waterfalls. Rincon waterfall in the Rincon valley on the north coast of Trinidad is a 250-foot vertical drop. The hike begins in the valley amidst small farms, fording several crystal clear streams and then winds uphill, culminating with a steep descent to the base of the waterfall. The 32 kilometer trail from Blanchissuese to Matelot on Trinidad’s north coast is considered a jewel. Along the hike one alternates from unspoiled rainforest to untouched beaches. Starting from Blanchissuese you encounter Paria Bay after two to three hours (depending on the hiker’s level of fitness). A short trail from the beach leads to Paria waterfall where there is a deep clear pool below the falls surrounded by heliconia, fringed lilies, and philodendron. If you choose to continue the hike after Paria Bay, the trail rambles over a succession of small ridges, crossing several small streams, until you next encounter Gran Tacarib, which is a 1.2 kilometer crescent shaped beach. From Gran Tacarib the trail continues to the Madamas river and then Madamas Beach. Both Madamas Beach and Gran Tacarib are nesting sites for Leatherback turtles, during the nesting season of March to September. After Madamas it is a continuation of the up and down hiking and crossing small streams and then the Petite Riviere river. The trail continues through abandoned estate lands with cocoa, coffee, tonka bean, nutmeg and papaya (pawpaw) until you arrive at the Matelot River and the village of Matelot.

For those who want to lie on the beach but also engage in some outdoor activity there are several less strenous hikes. Argyle waterfall on the outskirts of Roxborough in Tobago is an easy hike along the Argyle River to a three level waterfall. The hike to the Rio Seco waterfall on Trinidad’s north-east coast goes through semi-cultivated land and then through stately mora forests to a small waterfall with a refreshing emerald pool, ideal for swimming.

Both Trinidad and Tobago abound with birds and at almost every turn an avian spectacle can be observed. Trinidad and Tobago has some of the most diverse bird species to be found in one location with over 460. This variety in species can perhaps be attributed to the fact that the islands lie close to South America so migration is easier, resulting in unusually diverse fauna. Asa Wright Nature Center, is Trinidad and Tobago’s premier birding location and it has been widely recognized as one of the most successful eco-tourism stories in the world. The listing of birds that can be seen at this center is too long for this article but has been identified in the vicinity of 159. Some of these birds include; Purple Honeycreeper, Green Honeycreeper, Crested Oropendola, Silver-beaked Tanager, White-necked Jacobin hummingbirds, Bananaquit, Red-legged Honeycreeper, White-chested Emerald hummingbird, Cocoa Thrush, Chestnut Woodpecker, Great Antshrike. This Nature Center is located at a height of approximately 1,200 feet in the hills of the Northern Range, seven miles from the town of Arima. It is reached by a single lane road that winds through verdant countryside dotted by small villages and isolated houses. There are numerous trails throughout the property and very knowledgeable guides.

Grafton Wildlife Sanctuary, Tobago, is a former cocoa and coconut estate that was destroyed by Hurricane Flora in 1963 and as a result was converted into a wildlife sanctuary. It is approx. 200 acres in size and is covered in secondary forest. There are three main forest trails. As you enter, the first trail on the right leads downhill and is relatively short. The second trail on the left also gradually leads downhill and then eventually climbs uphill. The main trail, which is directly facing the entrance, leads uphill and winds past several abandoned estate buildings and stables. There are benches along the main trail and at some points they provide panoramic views. There are at least three smaller trails that branch off from the main uphill trail but these are not always maintained. The three main forest trails are maintained. It is possible to spend an enjoyable hour or an intense four hours. The entire sanctuary abounds with birds of varied species.

Trinidad and Tobago are islands in the Caribbean Sea so there are myriad opportunities for kayaking. However for those who do not want to contend with large waves, ocean swells and ocean currents, Trinidad and Tobago offers a choice of sheltered saltwater and freshwater kayaking opportunities. Two kayaking areas of particular note are Bon Accord Lagoon and the Godineau River.

The azure waters of Buccoo Bay and the Bon Accord Lagoon in Tobago are sheltered by the offshore Buccoo reef, providing a kayaking area with only gentle swells. Kayak rentals are available at the nearby Storebay and also at Pigeon Point. The fringing Mangrove swamps of the Bon Accord Lagoon provide a scenic contrast to the white sand beaches along Pigeon Point and at the center of Buccoo bay. The offshoots of the reef also shelter the adjacent Milford Bay, allowing one to kayak to the south-east from Bon Accord Lagoon around Pigeon Point and into Milford Bay or vice-versa.

The Godineau River in south Trinidad, also known as the South Oropouche River, is one of the rivers in Trinidad that provides a year round kayaking opportunity as the water level is always sufficient. Kayaking in the Godineau area takes you through a variety of habitats, from saltwater mangrove swamp to fresh water marshland to partially cultivated areas. A variety of birdlife can be seen on these kayak trips including Scarlet Ibis, Southern Lapwing, Osprey, Savannah Hawk, Wattled Jacana, Cattle Egret, Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Lesser Yellowlegs, Black-bellied Whistling Duck and a variety of migrating ducks (during the northern winter). This kayak trip can be started either from the sea along the area known as the Mosquito Creek or inland from the Woodland area.

Trinidad’s network of old agricultural & oilfield roads plus (relatively) quiet country roads, along with hiking paths provide a range of surfaces and environments for cycling. In addition terrain ranges from flat land to rolling inclines to hillsides. For those with a preference for road biking almost every area of Trinidad has country roads with reduced vehicle traffic. The cross-country rider will be able to find undulating land with natural vistas. Those whose interest lies in mountain biking can find forest trails with logs, bamboo and streams across the trail requiring navigation and dexterity.

So the next time you are looking for outdoor recreational activity with a difference, experience Trinidad and Tobago, islands of Adventure.

Leave a Comment :, , , more...

Ang Thong National Marine Park Snorkeling Adventure and Kayaking Tour from Koh Samui by In Sea Speedboat

by on Apr.21, 2011, under Articles

kayak

When you first fly into Koh Samui you will have seen the clusters of islands, one of these areas is called the Ang Thong National Marine Park.Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour at Angthong National Marine Park, don’t miss a chance to visit one of the most beautiful marine
park in Thailand. An easy trip from Koh Samui provided by In Sea Speedboat gives you an ultimate nature explore experience.We have 2 sizes of speed boats; 2 engines, 3 engines which can contain passenger as much as the harbor authority permits that shown by a sticker beside each boat. There are life jackets both sizes for adult and child. Our entire captain has got the boat driver license with the experiences with speed boat at least 10years.That’s you can trust about safety,furthermore,we’ve got the first class insurance per time per person in case of accident from our boat.Our entire English speaking tour guide will be your assistant, and give you advice and helpful that can make you enjoy through the trip,CBF breakfast, Thai menu for your lunch, soft drink onboard, and snorkeling gear are also provided.The last important thing, our nice staffs promptly take care you all through your holiday.

Schedule: ( October – March )
- 07.00  Tranfer from your hotel to the pier Bangrak Beach with our complimentary : hot coffee,hot tea,bread,fresh fruit.
- 08.30  Leaving from the pier to ” Koh Nang Yuan ” by speed boat.
- 10.00  Arrive ” Koh Nang Yuan ” with its triple – connecting beach the miracle of creation by the nature for snorkeling
(Dive1) or climbing up the view point
- 11.30  Depart from ” Koh Nang Yuan ” to Koh Tao ” Sairee Beach ” having lunch at ” Island restaurant ” (Thai Buffet).
- 12.30  Depart from restaurant to ” Thain Og Bay (Shark Bay) ” enjoy snorkeling see ” Blacktip Reef Shark ” and wonderful
underwater world.(Dive2) 
- 13.30  Depart from ” Thain Og Bay ” to ” Aow Leuk ” for snorkeling or just sit in crystal clear water surrounded by fish.(Dive3)
- 15.00  Board the speed boat back to ” Koh Samui “
- 16.30  Arrive ” Koh Samui ” and take you back to your hotel.

*** Our program is subjected to change depending on the Weather and sea condition ***

Tour Price: 2,300 Thai Bath per person

Leave a Comment :, , , , , , , , , , more...

Endless Adventure in Sea Kayaking

by on Apr.01, 2011, under Articles

kayak

Sea kayak encourages the sport of paddling on open waters of lakes, bays and oceans. They are stable and seaworthy with a covered deck and ability to incorporate a spray deck if needed. One of the advantages of these kayaks is that they are extremely maneuverable and versatile and can be used for straight line paddling, comfortable long journeys and for carrying cargos. Sea kayaks has a hot market as it is used in trips which can last for few hours to many weeks, accommodating two to three paddlers along with camping gear, food, water and other supplies.

Sea kayaks are available in a wide array of material, designs and size to meet the needs of different types of paddlers. Most of the modern kayaks carry the contemporary traditional designs but some recent innovation includes: recreational kayaks, small sea kayaks with wide beam, sit-on-tops kayaks, inflatable kayaks and surf skis. Following are some of the important things to note about these kayaks:

Size: Most of these kayaks are between 12 feet to 24feet in length. The width is 18 inches to 28 inches. Specialized kayaks such as surf skis are narrower.

Materials:  Many kayaks are made from fiberglass, rot molded polythene and Kevlar. Others are made of carbon fiber and royalex.

Used for trips: Modern sea kayaks are used for carrying large amount of equipments needed for long expedition from tropics to the artic.

Safety:  Safety of the kayaks depends only on the paddlers, unless the weather conditions become a hurdle. A well practiced Eskimo roll is essential to safe open water kayaking.

Sea kayaks are present in the market in large amounts, so choosing the one to fit you and your needs has to be carefully done, keeping in mind some important issues as:

1. Suggested paddlers weight range is different for each kayak design.

2. There should be an ideal loading on the kayak.. Never select a kayak by its maximum capacity as many times it is tempting but the total truth is not stated.

3. Front height of the cockpit is important as higher the cockpit entry an exit becomes easy and also less water fills in your lap and inside the kayak.

4. Rear gear of the cockpit needs to be higher and should have solid back rest for comfortable cruising and long kayaking trips.

Sea kayaking is environmentally friendly and appeals to all ages as most us enjoy the beautiful nature, open spaces and fresh air. It offers special kind of freedom and is a natural progression from flat water kayaking to exploring the great oceans.

Related Kayak Articles

Leave a Comment :, , more...

Sea Kayaking In Thailand Can Be A Memorable Adventure

by on Mar.16, 2011, under Articles

kayak

Sea Kayaking has recently taken off in Thailand as a hugely popular activity. There are a number of companies, all with experienced and trained staff, who are willing to take you on an adventure, as you explore the sights of Thailand from the sea. It is a fantastic and unique way to view the country. Sea Kayaking caters for all types of people; for beginners or for those who are a little more confident or experienced; for those wishing for just a little light kayaking as they see the sights, or for those wishing to have an adventure and explore uninhabited islands. Sea Kayaking offers an extraordinary and exciting way for you to discover your own Thailand.


There are different types of water transportation available, such as inflatable craft, or fibre glass canoes with a roof to sit on, but the most popular type and probably the best way to enjoy this experience is with the traditional kayaks, using nothing more than muscle power (although it does not necessarily have to be too strenuous!). No other way will allow you to intricately explore the rocky coastline or inlets of small islands so closely – other water transportation can be too noisy, too fast or too clumsy. Sea Kayaking in Thailand enables you to connect with the stunning scenery whilst touring the beautiful coastline, observing the wildlife on land, in the sky, and under water from a unique vantage point.


There are different types of trips one could take in a sea Kayak. For example, one could take a leisurely visit to a National Park, watching the wildlife as you paddle below, an amazing experience which is a favourite with many. There are also trips to uninhabited islands, which allow you to become intrepid explorers for the day. You can even spend a few days exploring the coastline further and camping overnight (if you don’t fancy camping more comfortable accommodation is also available!). There are also many caves, or Hong(Thai for room) to be explored, the narrow sea Kayak perfectly formed to be able to investigate these natural phenomenon. There are many and varied tours, all a perfect way to sample some of the most beautiful scenery Thailand has to offer, from white sandy beaches to tropical vegetation. All fitness levels are catered for, and there will be a trip that everyone will enjoy. Sea Kayaking in Thailand is a liberating and rewarding form of transport, enabling one to escape the hordes of tourists on land, and enjoy a tranquil and unusual way to sightsee Thailand.

Leave a Comment :, , , more...

Sea Kayaking Adventure

by on Feb.19, 2011, under Articles

kayak

Your vacation can be spend in a sea kayaking adventure as kayaking is an excellent workup for your body and mind. The kayak that is built is equipped to handle all sort of sea conditions as well as long term trips.

Kayaking is a vigorous sport for lovers of the sea and sea kayaking adventure is an exciting outdoor sport. When you are out in the sea, you will blend with the picturesque and mysterious coastlines. No other sea sport will give you the experience that will remain with you forever.

The breathtaking experience on top of a fun-filled exercise mix together with the beauty of nature will delight even a novice. A vacation out at sea on a sea kayaking adventure can be amazingly stunning and entertaining with the unpredictable nature of the sea. Sailing on a kayak is fascinating and alluring with whatever companions that you bring along. 

North American people are naturally adventurous and with sea kayaking, you can discover and partake in a memorable voyage that takes you far and wide. It is a great exercise and provides the most ideal adventure especially for nature lovers where you can connect and embrace the beauty of the wide sea. You are the pilot of the kayak and you will guide it to conquer the unpredictable sea and waves. That is what I call adventure where you are solely responsible for your own safety as well as that of your companions.

With sea kayaking, you have to be equipped with the requisite skills to cope with the rough sea and all the unpredictability that it brings. Although sea kayaking can be fun, not everyone is suited for it as it demands strength, resilience and the spirit of adventure as well as permitting surprises on occasion too. The most essential quality is patience to rough through it as it can be lonely at times. For those with such qualities, it can be the most satisfying sea adventure.

People of all ages can enjoy sea kayaking as long as they are active but you need to note that sea kayaking can be very dangerous if you are not equipped with all the safety precautions. Those that are immersed in it will do it repeatedly for it is an incomparable sport. A sea kayaking adventure is a massive experience with unadulterated thrill when you out there battling nature. Whatever you do, so long as you put safety at the top of your concern, there is nothing that you can do out there when embracing the sea.

Find More Kayak Articles

Leave a Comment :, more...

Useful Links